Here's a wild Hollywood 'what-if' that could have changed '90s movie nostalgia forever: What if the iconic Terminator 2: Judgment Day soundtrack had featured Nine Inch Nails instead of Guns N' Roses? Believe it or not, this almost happened—thanks to actor Robert Patrick's passionate fandom.
Here’s the backstory you probably missed: Robert Patrick (who played the terrifying T-1000) isn’t just an action star—he’s also the brother of Richard Patrick, frontman of the industrial rock band Filter. But here’s where it gets interesting: Before Filter, Richard was a touring guitarist and backing vocalist for Nine Inch Nails. That connection fueled Robert’s obsession with NIN’s early work, especially their 1989 debut Pretty Hate Machine. In a recent interview (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MN9wDVOFDzA), Robert revealed he lobbied director James Cameron to use NIN’s explosive anthem "Head Like a Hole" in T2.
So why didn’t it happen? Turns out, Cameron was deep in his Guns N’ Roses phase and opted for "You Could Be Mine" instead—a track that later appeared on Use Your Illusion II. Controversial take: Would T2’s dystopian vibe have been even darker with NIN’s industrial grit? Or did Guns N’ Roses’ sleeker sound better suit the film’s blockbuster energy? (Sound off in the comments!)
Here’s the twist: While Robert admires NIN, his ultimate loyalty lies with Filter. He struggled to recall the title mid-interview, but his favorite Filter track is "Surprise" from their 2013 album The Sun Comes Out Tonight—a tender, uplifting song Richard wrote for his daughter. "It’s a beautiful departure from their usual intensity," Robert mused.
And when it comes to Filter’s discography? Robert crowned their 1995 debut Short Bus as the band’s masterpiece, calling it "one of the defining albums of the ‘90s." Bold claim? Maybe. But he backs it up: "It reshaped hard rock without being grunge—it carved its own path alongside bands like Skinny Puppy, Ministry, and yes, Nine Inch Nails." (Side note: Richard might cringe at the comparison, but the influence is undeniable.)
Fun footnote: While NIN recently scored Tron: Ares, Filter has its own soundtrack legacy—from The Crow: City of Angels to Spawn, where their collab with The Crystal Method ("(Can’t You) Trip Like I Do") became a chart hit. So, debate time: Which band’s music would you rather blast during a sci-fi showdown? Let’s argue below. 🔥
